Finding Joy in the Buzz of TIFF

I love the buzz of TIFF. I smile the whole way through—through the crowds, the TIFF shop, the red carpet photo opps. I pause for the Unagi Lover’s lunch and a pinot grigio at Kinoya Sushi & Bar. And I people watch. Oh, the people! From all over the world, brimming with joy and energy. Not a grumpy face in sight.

Why? Because we all chose to be here. Drawn like a magnet to these few blocks on King Street to have our cups filled.

And here’s the thing: I didn’t even see a single film this time. I didn’t come for that. I came to soak up the creativity, to be energized by the crowds, to be present. This will carry me through until next weekend, when I’ll actually sit down to watch something. Because at TIFF, there’s something for everyone.

Being here always brings me back to how my life changed when Murray asked me to be part of his film years ago. That film premiered at film festivals across the world—from Whistler to the Canadian Film Fest, and all the way to Shanghai. The memories are as alive in me today as ever.

Lately, my daily affirmation cards keep telling me the same thing: find joy, have fun. I’ll admit, with a multi-path career, that’s not always easy. Time is short. It can feel like every moment has to be productive. Do I just walk down the street and soak it all in? Or do I record it for social media?

What I’ve discovered is—it’s a balance. I can move forward and be present. I can smile, enjoy my sushi, buy the fun shirt with silver writing, stand at the barricade, and ask the person next to me which star they’re waiting to see. I can remember The Cocksure Lads Movie and how it changed my life. And, as hectic as it often is, I wouldn’t trade this path for anything.

So here’s to finding joy—in the buzz, the crowds, and in the simple act of being here.

Roll credits with gratitude,
Tamara